Korean J Fam Med.
2021 May;42(3):245-249. 10.4082/kjfm.19.0068.
Lucio Phenomenon: Sequelae of Neglected Leprosy
- Affiliations
-
- 1Department of Family Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
- 2Department of Dermatology, Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II, Kelantan, Malaysia
- KMID: 2516443
- DOI: http://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.19.0068
Abstract
- Lucio phenomenon is a potentially fatal leprosy reaction seen in pure, primitive, and diffuse form of lepromatous leprosy. It is a globally restricted phenomenon that occurs in Mexico and Costa Rica; however, sporadic cases have been reported elsewhere. We report a rare case of a 50-year-old Indonesian, who resided in Malaysia for the past 33 years, which presented with extensive ulcers on all four limbs for 3 weeks, as well as a 16-year history of skin changes and alopecia. Full evaluation established the diagnosis of lepromatous leprosy with Lucio phenomenon. Delay in diagnosis leads to significant disabilities and disease transmission within the community. Therefore, primary care practitioners, even in non-endemic countries, should be wary of this atypical feature of leprosy to prevent complications since it is a highly curable disease.
